Fun Activities at the Zoo

There's always something fun at your Toledo Zoo!

Something's always happening at the Toledo Zoo. Along with outstanding animal encounters, we offer a wide variety of activities, events, services and attractions that will make your visit memorable and enjoyable.

Have you Heard? WE’RE NUMBER ONE!

The Toledo Zoo was voted BEST Zoo in the United States in USA TODAY’S 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards

Check out our upcoming schedule of fun activities

We have something for everyone who wants to have a good time at the Zoo!

Events for the Whole Family:

Throughout the year the Zoo hosts several family-centered events for visitors of all ages, as well as great afterhours events where adults can dine, mingle and have a great experience too. View our Year at a Glance page for a preview of all events remaining for the current year.

• Our animals are just like yours—they love to eat! During Natural Feeding Demonstrations,, you can watch different animals chow down each day from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Zoo staff may also be available to share information and answer questions.

• You can support your favorite Zoo animal by becoming a Zoo PAL. It also makes a great gift.

• Have you seen our vast collection of Animal Facts? Each page has information, a photo, and videos about your favorite Zoo animals. You can also download any of the videos for free.

• Check out our animal web cams to see what some of our animals are doing right now!

• On your next trip to the Zoo, look for our volunteer Zoo-Eds and ZOOTeens offering new perspectives on animals.

Rides:

• Ride a giraffe, lion, zebra and more on the African Animal Carousel.

• Immerse yourself in the heart of Africa! on the Safari Railway.

• Take a trip back in time on the Zoo’s 1950s vintage carousel.

Please note: Individual tickets may be purchased, or purchase a ride pass for multiple rides at a discounted rate. Ride operation is contingent on weather conditions; rides may have shortened schedules during winter months.

Where are the rides? Download our Zoo Guide Map so you can plan a trip to our rides during your visit

Explore and play:

Nature’s Neighborhood. Forget what you think you know about children’s zoos. Nature’s Neighborhood is a 100% explore-able wonderland that’s perfect for kids 8 and under! This award-winning, year-round children’s zoo experience is your place to discover, explore and play.

Our colorful playground, located near the Main Plaza, is a great place to let the kids run the wiggles out. Where is Nature’s Neighborhood? Download our Zoo Guide Map so you can stop by to see them during your visit.

• Historic Architecture — The Zoo is home to several buildings from the WPA era. Take a picture of history!

Please note: Commercial photography or filming is prohibited without the prior consent of the Zoo’s Marketing Department.

Shopping:

• Find great Zoo souvenirs, from plush toys to Zoo gear at our gift shops and gift carts throughout the Zoo.

• Does someone you know have a favorite zoo animal? Learn how Zoo PAL could be a great gift!

Picnics, concessions, and food services:

• The Zoo can host your organization’s picnic for a super day of family fun. Learn more.

• Try our lunchtime adventure, Picnic On Safari, with reserved seating at our overlook in the Africa! exhibit. (Seasonal availability from Memorial Day through Labor Day only)

• Have lunch waiting for you on arrival - no lines. Feeding your family is a breeze with our Safari Sandwiches program. (Seasonal availability from Memorial Day through Labor Day only)

• Field trip? Group function? If you have lots of people to feed, check out our streamlined sack-lunch program

• Click here to find places where you can tame your hunger when you’re at the Zoo.

• The Timberline Bakery and Deli inside the North Star Trading Post® is a great place to get a sandwich, baked goods or just a great cup of coffee.The Timberline Bakery also offers services for cakes and other custom baked goods perfect for your special occasion. Learn more.

• Host a catered event at the Toledo Zoo! Our service and food will delight and impress your guests! Learn more

Entertainment:

• You never know who’s going to be at a Zoo event to entertain you!
Many of our festive events are enhanced by the performances of musicians, magicians, dancers, cultural groups and other performers. Click here to see our scheduled events to find out what’s happening at the Zoo.